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Oct 26, 2016

Still a believer.Tom Cruise opened up in a new interview about his unremitting devotion to Scientology more than 30 years after he joined the controversial religion.

Chatting withITV Newsat the Thursday, October 20, London premiere of his latest film,Jack Reacher 2: Never Go Back,Cruise, 54, was asked about his thoughts onLouis Theroux's 2015 documentary,My Scientology Movie. The film features young actors "auditioning" for parts playing high-profile Scientologists in scenes that recreate accounts from ex-members about incidents involving senior church management.

Despite the negative tone of the film, Cruise responded to the reporter’s query by raving about the positive influence L. Ron Hubbard’s organization has had on him.

“It’s something that has helped me incredibly in my life; I’ve been a Scientologist for over 30 years,” the actor replied. “It’s something, you know, without it, I wouldn’t be where I am. So it’s a beautiful religion. I’m incredibly proud.”

Though Cruise (arguably the most high-profile Scientologist) remains committed to his spiritual beliefs, there have been many celebrities — includingLeah ReminiandPaul Haggis, among others — to leave the Church of Scientology.

Many ex-Scientologists have claimed leaders force members to shun anyone who leaves the church. Those who have left the church are allegedly labeled as “suppressive” people.

However, a rep for the Church of Scientology previously toldUs,"We never comment on individual parishioners' lives. On the issue of Church religious practices, we do not know who your anonymous sources are, but they got it all wrong. The answer to your question is no. Scientologists respect the faith of others, associate with and befriend members of every religion. Scientologists do not cut ties with non-Scientologist friends or family members because they have chosen another religion. Given that Scientology is a new religion, Scientologists often have family members and friends who are not Scientologists and who may practice another faith or no faith at all. This causes no conflict for Scientologists."